If the prop is still turning the same rpm with mags on or off the MP would not change.
Hmm...now I don't quite understand? AH's WWII aircraft have constant speed props and due to that RPM tends to stay constant during normal flying but throttle controls pressure of the charge that is being fed to the cylinders? I must have somehow misunderstood your post HT.
At rest, engine shut off, prob stationary...shouldn't the MAP-gauge show the current ambient air pressure at the time?
Brits and the Japanese used a system where a pressure that was below the normal standard sea level air pressure shows as "negative pressure", because the base line for zero is set at sea level. These negative values or below 30" values for US planes would usually only occur at higher altitudes and low power settings obviously but it would be cool that the MP-gauge wouldn't always return back to the 10" when throttle is pulled back but would show the correct pressure for idle for example.
I always thought it was set up that way because it was easier on the average user.
I don't see how showing correct manifold pressures at all modes of operation would make it any more harder for average user.